Steve Flores

Steve Flores focuses his legal practice on complex executive compensation and employee benefits matters. He advises employers, private equity sponsors, portfolio companies, and management teams on compensation structures and benefit arrangements. His work often connects legal strategy with business transactions, helping organizations handle regulatory requirements while managing workforce compensation programs effectively.

Steve earned a BA from the University of Illinois Chicago in 2003, where he completed his undergraduate studies before entering the legal field. He later earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois College of Law in 2007, where he developed the legal foundation that supports his work in compensation and benefits law.

Steve assists companies with the creation, implementation, and termination of employee benefit plans and compensation programs. His work includes equity and cash-based incentive plans, nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements, retention plans, change-in-control programs, employment agreements, severance agreements, and retirement or health and welfare benefit plans.

Steve provides advice to employers and plan fiduciaries regarding their obligations under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). He helps organizations address governance responsibilities, prohibited transaction concerns, and regulatory reviews. His work also includes guidance on compliance with the Internal Revenue Code, HIPAA, and securities laws affecting employee benefit programs.

Steve is active in several professional and community organizations. His involvement includes the Chicago Committee, the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA), the Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois, the American Bar Association (ABA), the Illinois State Bar Association, and the Leadership Council for Legal Diversity.

Steve Flores has received recognition for his contributions to the legal field and his professional leadership. Chicago United named him a Business Leader of Color. He was also included among Leading Corporate Employment Lawyers by LawDragon and recognized as a Labor & Employment Star by Benchmark Litigation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Cooley LLP
• Member, Hispanic National Bar Association
• Member, Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, Leadership Council for Legal Diversity

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• University of Illinois College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Illinois Chicago
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges